It is with great pride that we announce Kenneth Alulema as Local 159’s Member of the Month for January 2025. Chosen by last year’s honoree, Melody Pastor, Kenneth’s dedication, passion for his craft, and leadership qualities embody the very best of what it means to be a journeyman painter in our union. He has not only honed his skills to an exceptional level but has also proven himself to be an invaluable mentor to those around him. His story is one of hard work, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, making him a shining example of what it means to take pride in one’s work.

Kenneth’s journey into the world of painting began with his father, Saul Ortiz, a painter and foreman at M&H. Growing up, Kenneth was exposed to the world of the union through his father’s work, and he was inspired to follow in his footsteps. As a senior in high school, Kenneth faced a decision—either pursue a college education or begin working. The choice was easy for him; he was drawn to the hands-on nature of the trade. His father helped him secure a sponsorship with M&H, where he spent his first year rotating between paint and taping. It didn’t take long for Kenneth to realize his true passion was in painting, which he describes as “therapy” for the soul. In fact, Kenneth has such a deep love for painting that he often jokes he would do it even if he didn’t get paid. That commitment to his craft is evident in the pride he takes in every job he completes.

Kenneth’s expertise lies in high-end, detailed interior work, where his goal is not just to finish the job, but to do it right the first time. For Kenneth, painting is not about rushing to meet production quotas—it’s about showcasing the quality of his work and ensuring that each task is executed with precision and care. He sees his work as a reflection of himself, and that pride in his craftsmanship shines through in every project he touches.

Being part of Local 159 has meant a great deal to Kenneth. He values the diversity of the union and the sense of community it provides. Kenneth believes in the importance of mentoring others and has taken on a leadership role in recent years. As a leadman on the Venetian project, he oversees a crew of seven or eight people who handle the masking for the spray crew. Every night, he’s given the goal of completing 17 rooms, but Kenneth consistently exceeds expectations, completing up to 20 rooms. He leads by example, always encouraging others to join the union and emphasizing the importance of being part of something greater than oneself. Kenneth’s commitment to mentorship is also clear in the way he shares his knowledge and experience with his crew, always eager to help others grow in their own careers.

Kenneth’s resilience is equally remarkable. In 2020, he was involved in a serious motorcycle accident that left him with a broken arm and a concussion. When he regained consciousness, his first thought wasn’t about his injuries—it was about when he could get back to work. His recovery took seven months, but Kenneth’s determination to return to his craft never wavered. He continues to work hard to this day, still finding time to enjoy writing, spending time with his family, and working on projects at home with his father. His strength in the face of adversity is an inspiration to us all.

Kenneth’s most memorable project to date was his swing stage job on the exterior of the Fontainebleau, one of the tallest towers in the valley. He had the privilege of working alongside Melody Pastor, the previous Member of the Month, on this challenging and rewarding project. The opportunity to work on such a significant project is a testament to Kenneth’s skill and dedication to his craft.

Perhaps the most meaningful recognition of Kenneth’s achievements comes from his father, Saul Ortiz, who shared the following heartfelt words about his son:

“Son, I have no words to express how I feel at this very moment, but I will start by saying that I feel so proud of you. It’s an honor for me to know that my son Kenneth has been chosen as the Member of the Month. I want you to know that I am very happy for you and so proud that you have followed in my footsteps as a painter of the union hall. I am profoundly proud to see how much you have been able to grow in this career and how you like to share with others the little things I have taught you. But what really gives me that joy in my heart is to see how much you enjoy what you do. Don’t let anyone take that away from you.”

Saul’s pride in his son is palpable, and we, too, at Local 159, share in that pride. Kenneth’s journey is a shining example of the value of hard work, dedication, and mentorship. His story reminds us all of the importance of taking pride in our work and constantly striving to be the best version of ourselves. He is not only a skilled painter but also a leader and a mentor to those around him. Kenneth has set a high bar for excellence, and we encourage all of our members to follow his example of commitment to craft, leadership, and union pride.

Let’s celebrate Kenneth Alulema as the Member of the Month for January 2025. His hard work, perseverance, and dedication are the qualities that make Local 159 a great union. Kenneth’s example is one we should all strive to follow, and his commitment to excellence sets the standard for all of us. Congratulations, Kenneth—you are truly deserving of this recognition!